From The Publisher: September 2016

09/09/2016 07:00AM
● Published by Robert Frey

By Art Suberbielle

The Silver Lining

Rain, rain, and more rain brought about the most horrible devastation south Louisiana has experienced since the twin hurricanes of 2005. Who could have imagined, much less forecast, such widespread flooding?

We’ve all seen Bayou Teche and the Vermilion River rise after heavy rains and even hurricanes, but not to the levels this huge amount of rainfall caused. As the deluge subsided, the flood waters receded in some areas, but backwater flooding from the runoff created even more tragedy. As I write this, there are still a substantial number of homes and areas flooded in Iberia and St. Martin parishes.

As the old adage points out, “Every cloud has a silver lining.” The “silver lining” in this instance was the widespread assistance provided to those who suffered from the floods by family, neighbors, friends, and co-workers.

Time and again we have heard how quickly assistance was provided to remove materials affected by the floods. Entire neighborhoods arose to assist those whose homes had taken on water. We have heard how co-workers have banded together to assist fellow employees remove debris. While some worked to remove the damaged materials, others provided ancillary support by preparing food for the workers or handling other necessary chores.

The extent of the charitable work and compassion provided by individuals is amazing. Where else in the world would so many people come to the assistance of their neighbors so quickly? In such trying times, the intrinsic good will of the people of south Louisiana was never more evident.

Although much has been done, there is still so much more needed to restore people’s lives. Let’s not lose sight of the on-going needs of our neighbors in the weeks and months ahead. Lend a hand to a neighbor who has suffered a tragic loss, whether it be by your own physical labor or spiritually supporting them in this trying time.